August 21, 2025

Get ready for a vibrant but safe Vinayaka Chaturthi in Namakkal! District Collector S. Durgamoorthi just dropped a sparkling set of instructions to make this festival eco-friendly and hassle-free. According to the official release, anyone who wants to set up a Ganesh idol must first get a no-objection certificate from the local Revenue Divisional Officer. Planning a grand procession? Hold your horses! The route must be chosen carefully to not disturb people following other religions. What kind of idols can be worshipped? Only those made of clay or unbaked eco-friendly materials like tapioca starch or rice mill waste are allowed. No chemicals! The Collector slammed the use of plaster of paris, calling it banned by both the Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board and the Central Pollution Control Board. Safety first, she said—idols must be housed in fireproof temporary structures. Organisers should have first aid ready and keep non-flammable items close by. "The height of the idol should not be raised above 10 feet," she emphasized. Hold on, no idols near religious spots, hospitals, or schools! Noise pollution is a big no-no too—loudspeakers can be used only for two hours in the morning and two in the evening. And don't forget, no space for any illegal or political ads during the event. Every idol installation should have its own protection committee with at least two vigilant people to watch the site round the clock. Plus, if power goes off, generators must take charge. Hate speech or slogans that target other religions? Absolutely forbidden! Only official areas for idol immersion are allowed. Specifically, in Namakkal, only four spots by river basins—Komarapalayam, Pallipalayam, Mohanur, and Paramathi Velur—have approval for immersion from the Pollution Control Board. Organizers must dissolve idols within five days and use mini lorries or tractors for transport. With these spicy but important rules, Vinayaka Chaturthi 2025 promises to be a festival full of joy, respect, and care for Mother Earth—just the way we all need it!

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Tags: Vinayaka chaturthi, Idol installation, Environmental guidelines, Namakkal district, Pollution control, Public safety,